Understanding your circadian rhythm

This resource explains the concept of circadian rhythm, highlighting its role as the body’s natural timekeeper for regulating sleep-wake cycles. It explores the importance of sunlight and melatonin in maintaining this rhythm and provides insights into how disruptions can affect energy, mood, and overall well-being.

It is designed to support therapists in delivering psychoeducation about circadian rhythms, helping young people understand how to work with their bodies to improve their sleep and feel more energised during the day.

Free

Understanding your circadian rhythm

Free

Understanding your circadian rhythm

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Black & White Version

Specifically created to keep ink usage low without compromising on great design.

Full Colour Version

Great for sharing on computer screens, phones & tablets.

References and Further Reading 

  • Dewald-Kaufmann, J., de Bruin, E. and Michael, G. (2022) ‘Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia in school-aged children and adolescents’, Sleep Medicine Clinics, 17(3), pp. 355–365. doi:10.1016/j.jsmc.2022.06.003.
  • Keuppens, L. et al. (2023a) ‘Sleep intervention as symptom treatment for ADHD (siesta)-blended CBT sleep intervention to improve sleep, ADHD symptoms and related problems in adolescents with ADHD: Protocol for a randomised controlled trial’, BMJ Open, 13(4). doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065355.
  • Gradisar, M. et al. (2011a) ‘A randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavior therapy plus bright light therapy for adolescent delayed sleep phase disorder’, Sleep, 34(12), pp. 1671–1680. doi:10.5665/sleep.1432.
  • Dewald-Kaufmann, J., de Bruin, E. and Michael, G. (2019) ‘Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) in school-aged children and adolescents’, Sleep Medicine Clinics, 14(2), pp. 155–165. doi:10.1016/j.jsmc.2019.02.002.
  • Åslund, L. et al. (2020) ‘Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia in adolescents with comorbid psychiatric disorders: A clinical pilot study’, Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 25(4), pp. 958–971. doi:10.1177/1359104520929376.
  • Ma, Z.-R., Shi, L.-J. and Deng, M.-H. (2018) ‘Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy in children and adolescents with insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis’, Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 51(6). doi:10.1590/1414-431×20187070.
  • Sukiennik, O. et al. (2024) ‘Changes to sleep patterns and insomnia symptoms following cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety disorders in adolescents’, Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 52(5), pp. 522–534. doi:10.1017/s1352465824000195.